Used 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan Consumer Reviews
Solid German tank; won't let you down
What a great car. My first E-class, an E430, was totaled, and the same dealership got me into an E320 4Matic. Excellent ride; a joy to do some DIY work to, easy to work on and find OEM parts online, and a great community of owners at various sites, including benzworld dot org. I've had Lexus and I just can't get over how much better the German ride is and how well Mercedes makes their vehicles. A completely different driving experience than even BMW and Audi, both brands I love as well. But for now, given the quality, fit and finish of these vehicles, I'm glad to see Benz took a step in the right direction with the W212 chassis (2010- up) and I'll be buying a used W212 wagon next!
2002 Mercedes Benz E430
I bought this car in 1/03 with 8000 Miles 17 years ago for $38,000 the original MSRP was $53,000. Today I have 287,500 Miles on it and runs brand new I have maintained it since the day I bought it. The ride is exceptionally smooth and easy to drive no issues mechanically or electronically at all, the maintenance is the Oil Chang every 7000 Mile using Mobil 1 10/40 or 15/50 Full Synthetic with the Lucas Additive. I had 1 Transmission Fluid Change in 2010 and since then nothing and still runs perfect times like a clock. Mercedes says since it's a Sealed Transmission that it never has to be done for life now with the miles I have I'm going to ride it out this is the longest I've ever kept a car with this many miles and I'm totally impressed. It has 295HP @ 5700 RPM and picks up with a smooth power quickly and stops on a dime the ABS System is very good. AC is still Cold every 2 years I have a Recharge to keep it running cool, I've had the Rear Window Regulator repaired 1 and the Left Headlight Bulb goes out often but it's a easy replacement. I had the top speed to 152 MPH onetime to see how fast it can go and when slowed down to 65 MPH it felt like I was crawling. This is one of the best dependable cars I've ever had I detail it every week and looks like I just bought yesterday, E430 is an exceptional car and worth to keep for another 20 years. One thing is when you try to Appraise it or Book it out the value to a potential buyer would be about $1500 at best and that just doesn't make sense but those are the facts even though I paid $37,000 doesn't matter. However when I'm putting gas or im parked I'll have people come and complement the condition on how good it looks and shocked to know it 17 years old with 287,000 they cant believe it. I would even want to sell it and go through the BS Haggle knowing what this car is worth being so dependable and in great condition one day I'll just give it away and hope someone takes care of like I have.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
- E320 4MATIC WagonMSRP: $8,99592 mi away
- E320 4MATIC WagonMSRP: $5,99993 mi away
- E430 4MATIC SedanMSRP: $2,900171 mi away
Comfort and Fun
The exterior is a work of art. Although the 2003 is redesigned, I still think my model looks great due to Merc's styling concept. The interior is conservative and sufficiently comfortable, which is what I expect for such an automobile, but I find every gadget useful and logically in place. However, the cupholders could be better. The ride and acceleration is smooth and quick, and the handling is good for such a heavy and relatively heavy car. Although the Lexus LS430 may be less expensive, it doesn't seem to have a unique character. The styling appears to mimic that of the E- series. In addition, it looks bland.
My Batmobile
It is a well engineered vehicle. The 2002 E320 has all of the improvements since 1996 without the glitches from 2003 and newer models. The brakes and throttle are soft and the suspension are made for a comfort ride. The body frame is solid and has no significant vibration until 100 mph. No major problems with my E320 so far. Unless you consider adding windshield fluid is a major problem.
Luv-n It in Alaska
I bought this for my wife. The grandkids were coming home, and I wanted more security than the 04 Outback wagon. So, one day were cruising the lots in Fairbanks, AK. and find this sweet E320 4matic. So, we test drive and she is really liking the car, but is reserved. It is way more car than we have ever owned before. Now, I do own an 83 240D, and love it, 4spd 28 miles to the gallon on its second engine...but a 2002? Well I go to work, I drive the Dalton Hiway ...the haul road. When I get home 2 days later, the wife has had a change of heart...she had it all arranged. She loves the car. I've added a few things, 18" chromes, stainless window trim, and wash it every weekend. Love the silver!